Indiana & Yoga Magazine Summer 2016 Issue 1 | Page 64

PHYSICAL YOGA Accomplished triathletes making yoga part of their training... Mandi Fagen I believe my interest in yoga stemmed from a few experiences and needs: I grew up taking dance from childhood including my years at Purdue—so yoga is an extension of movement and mindfulness, just as dance was for me. I've also been a runner for 20 years, now. I love how yoga is relaxing to my mind. Running does not always provide that outlet/sense of calm. There are many days I don't feel like going for a run and become anxious; furthermore, it is nice to step onto the mat without pre-workout anxiety. Without needing to say, yoga helps to keep me flexible and provides the much-needed stretch for running recovery. I started taking yoga over 15 years ago and, for now, primarily practice at home. Aside from why I practice, I am married to Jeremy and mother of 2 children (Patrick and Abigael, 5 and 3) ...perhaps another reason I need yoga! We are a very active family who enjoys hiking, playing at parks and riding bikes. I love to cycle and finished my first triathlon last summer. I am strongly considering getting my 200-hr yoga certification in the future. Jeff Hartman I went to Invoke studio for my 200-hr yoga teacher training, finishing in 2013, and have been teaching yoga ever since. I feel it is a great way to strengthen and stretch for triathletes or anyone. I am also an ACE certified personal trainer. I am an avid cyclist (road and mountain), trail runner and triathlete. Although my real passion is Xterra triathlons (off-road triathlons which comprise swimming, mountain biking and trail running), I also do some road triathlons. Special thanks to Mandi Fagen and Jeff Hartman for helping with the photo shoot at Endurance House in Fishers. ■ 62 INDIANA & YOGA MAGAZINE ISSUE I